As the curtains parted on April 3rd, 2024, the Ahmanson Theatre became a portal to a bygone era of wit, charm, and unbridled ambition with the revival of “Funny Girl.” Stepping into the shoes of Barbra Streisand’s unforgettable Fanny Brice was Katerina McCrimmon, whose Broadway debut was nothing short of revelatory. Skeptics, myself included, were quickly silenced as McCrimmon breathed new life into the role, infusing it with a raw authenticity and a vibrant vibrato reminiscent of Judy Garland at her finest.
But it wasn’t just McCrimmon who stole the spotlight. Grammy-winner Melissa Manchester, embodying Fanny’s sassy, very Jewish yenta of a mother, brought a delightful dose of comedic flair to the proceedings. Her chemistry with McCrimmon was electric, adding depth and dimension to their on-stage relationship that was both endearing and hilarious.
Underpinning it all was the orchestra, skillfully led by a female conductor, whose rich musical tapestry provided the perfect backdrop for the story’s emotional highs and lows. From the infectious energy of Fanny’s tap-dancing sidekick to the old Hollywood-style singing and impeccable choreography, every element of the production came together seamlessly, transporting audiences to a world of glitz and glamour that felt both timeless and utterly enchanting.
While comparisons to Streisand’s iconic portrayal are inevitable, this revival of “Funny Girl” stands tall on its own merits, thanks in no small part to the talents of its exceptional cast and creative team. McCrimmon and Manchester’s dynamic performances were supported by a strong ensemble who brought their A-game to every scene, infusing the production with an energy and vitality that was impossible to resist.
In the end, “Funny Girl” at the Ahmanson Theatre is a triumph of storytelling and stagecraft, a testament to the enduring power of live theater to captivate and inspire. While it may not surpass the legacy of its predecessors, it certainly holds its own as a worthy addition to the archives of Broadway history. As the final curtain fell and the applause echoed through the theater, it was clear that this revival had captured the hearts of audiences once again, leaving them humming the melodies of Fanny Brice’s unforgettable journey long after the lights had dimmed.
McCrimmon shared the stage with Grammy-winning vocalist Melissa Manchester, renowned for her hit “Don’t Cry Out Loud” and acclaimed for her role in the national tour of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Song and Dance,” portraying Mrs. Brice. Joining them are Stephen Mark Lukas as Nick Arnstein, Izaiah Montaque Harris as Eddie Ryan, Walter Coppage as Florenz Ziegfeld, Leah Platt as Emma and Mrs. Nadler, Christine Bunuan as Mrs. Meeker, Eileen T’Kaye as Mrs. Strakosh, and David Foley Jr. as Tom Keeney.
(Images by Matthew Murphy)